The three prominent teacher unions in Ghana, namely the Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT), the National Association of Graduate Teachers (NAGRAT), and the Coalition of Concerned Teachers (CCT) – have jointly announced a nationwide strike for teachers and Non-Teaching staff.
This significant decision has been prompted by what the unions perceive as the government’s neglect towards addressing their pressing concerns regarding their terms of service.
Among the key grievances outlined by the unions are the continuous withholding of teachers’ salaries, arbitrary changes to timetables without prior consultation with the unions, and delays in the distribution of essential equipment, such as laptops, to educators.
Speaking on behalf of GNAT, the National President, Isaac Owusu, emphasized the urgency of the situation, urging all teachers to adhere to the directive. Owusu expressed deep concern over the failure to distribute laptops to teachers, the frequent alterations to school calendars without dialogue with unions, and the obstruction of teachers’ salaries by the Office of the Special Prosecutor, bypassing established protocols.
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Considering the persistent delays and unmet commitments from the authorities and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission, coupled with mounting pressure from union members, the teacher unions have taken a unified stand to initiate a nationwide industrial action effective immediately.
This strike is intended to assert the demands of teachers and compel the government to address their grievances promptly and comprehensively.
In light of this development, it is crucial for stakeholders to engage constructively in dialogue to resolve the underlying issues and ensure the uninterrupted delivery of education across the nation.
National President of GNAT, Isaac Owusu said all teachers should heed to the directive.
“The distribution of laptops to all teachers is of concern. The rampant changes of school calendar without recourse to negotiation with the teacher unions is affecting the smooth operation of the service. Also the blockage of teachers salaries by the Office of the Special Prosecutor without recourse to the laid down procedures is a major worry.”
“In the light of the above circumstances and given the delays and unfulfilled promises on the part of the employer and the Fair Wages and Salaries Commission and also threats from the rank and file of our members we the pre tertiary teacher unions do stand with our members and hereby declare a nationwide industrial action effective today, Wednesday March 20, 2024, to press home our demand,” he stated